The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is the bird that puts Costa Rica on the international birding map. For the single best location to photograph macaws in flight with crocodiles below, the Rio Tarcoles photography guide covers the bridge crossing and boat-based options on Costa Rica’s most accessible wildlife river. Bright red, yellow, and blue from…
The Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus) is one of Costa Rica’s most recognizable birds. With its oversized, rainbow-colored bill, it looks like something a child would draw if given free rein with a crayon box. I’ve been photographing these birds for over a decade in Costa Rica, and they never stop surprising me. See also our…
Complete guide to photographing the Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens) in Costa Rica. Best Pacific coast locations, seasons, flight photography tips, and birding tours.
Learn where to find and photograph the American Pygmy Kingfisher (Chloroceryle aenea) in Costa Rica. Complete guide to habitat, behavior, best locations, and photography tips.
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird – Common Garden Jewel Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, Costa Rica. View gallery The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl) is one of the most common hummingbirds in Costa Rica. Its rufous tail and green plumage make it a familiar sight at feeders. See also our Manuel Antonio National Park – Birding Guide guide. See also our Tortuguero…
White-throated Magpie-Jay – The Blue Wonder White-throated Magpie-Jay, Guanacaste Costa Rica. View gallery The White-throated Magpie-Jay (Calocitta formosa) is a stunning blue bird with an expressive crest. This intelligent bird is a favorite in Guanacaste. See also our Manuel Antonio National Park – Birding Guide guide. See also our Tortuguero National Park – Birding Guide…
Clay-colored Thrush – Costa Rica’s National Bird Clay-colored Thrush, Costa Rica bird. View gallery The Clay-colored Thrush (Turdus grayi) is Costa Rica’s national bird. While not as flashy as other species, its beautiful song is a quintessential sound of Costa Rica. See also our White-throated Magpie-Jay – Costa Rica Birding Guide guide. See also our…
Blue-crowned Motmot – The Clockwork Bird Blue-crowned Motmot, Costa Rica. View gallery The Blue-crowned Motmot (Momotus momota) is known for its distinctive tail-fanning behavior. This colorful bird is a favorite of birders in Costa Rica. See also our White-throated Magpie-Jay – Costa Rica Birding Guide guide. See also our Manuel Antonio National Park – Birding…
Montezuma Oropendola – The Weaving Master Montezuma Oropendola, Costa Rica. View gallery The Montezuma Oropendola (Psarocolius montezuma) is one of Costa Rica’s most memorable birds. The males’ spectacular hanging nests and guttural calls make them unforgettable. See also our White-throated Magpie-Jay – Costa Rica Birding Guide guide. See also our Manuel Antonio National Park –…
Great Green Macaw – The Majestic Ara Great Green Macaw, Costa Rica. View gallery The Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus) is the largest parrot in Costa Rica and a flagship species for conservation. These magnificent birds require large tracts of forest and are a priority for birders. See also our Manuel Antonio National Park –…